Al Ahly will be the favorites to clinch a fourth African Champions League title in five years when they face Esperance of Tunisia in Cairo for the second leg of the final. However, they will have to find a way through a solid defense to achieve this goal.
The Egyptian giants, a dominant force in African club competition, are looking to extend their record number of wins in the continent’s premier club competition to 12. Despite a goalless draw in the first leg in Tunis, they maintain a distinct advantage with a formidable home record and a capacity 60,000-strong crowd in Cairo for the return leg.
Esperance, on the other hand, have showcased a competent defense, conceding no goals in their last nine Champions League ties. Al Ahly, although proficient in attack, will face a challenge breaking through this defense, especially in the absence of key players.
The absence of certain players adds complexity to Al Ahly's strategy, with flying fullback Ali Maaloul sidelined due to injury. However, they remain confident in their ability to capitalize on home advantage, with the aim of securing the title in Cairo.
This final marks the third encounter between these North African rivals in the Champions League final. The stage is set for an intense showdown as Al Ahly and Esperance battle it out for continental glory.
